Australia, Perth Mint: Largest Raptor on the Australian Continent Features on New Silver Bullion Coins

For 2024, this year marks the 10th anniversary of the first issue which is part of their range that features an annual design of the Australian Wedge-tailed Eagle. For the last nine years, renowned US coin sculptor John M. Mercanti has created some of the most detailed and superb depictions of the wedge-tailed eagle for this popular series and this year, his designs do not disappoint.

Named for its long, distinctively shaped tail, the wedge-tailed eagle is Australia’s largest bird of prey and in fact is one of the biggest eagles in the world. With an expansive wingspan of up to 2.5 metres, or 8.2 feet it has the ability to fly tirelessly for many hours and frequently reaches altitudes of 2,000 metres or almost 6600 feet and beyond on thermal air currents rising from Australia’s sun-baked terrain. Their territory spans from much of mainland Australia including Tasmania, and as far north as the island of New Guinea.

John Mercanti’s bold design featured on the reverse side depicts a soaring wedge-tailed eagle centred and with intricate detail. The background features geometrically arranged elements that suggest a sunburst. As well as the inscriptions AUSTRALIAN WEDGE-TAILED EAGLE and 10TH ANNIVERSARY placed below and above the primary design, the reverse includes a P125 mintmark signifying The Perth Mint’s 125th anniversary in 2024. The obverse side portrays an effigy of His Majesty King Charles III facing to the left created by artist Dan Thorne. The coin’s denomination of 1 DOLLAR is placed just below the King’s likeness.

Each coin is presented in a protective acrylic capsule and is limited to 20 coins per household. For additional information on these and other bullion coins offered from the Perth Mint, please visit their online webshop.